Potential Causes of Interstitial Cystitis and Ways to Prevent It

Have you recently been diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis (IC), or Painful Bladder Syndrome? IC is a chronic inflammation of the bladder wall that causes pelvic pain, frequent urination, and more. You might be wondering, "Why?" and "How could I have prevented it?" 

I'm sure we all wish we could go back in time and do something to avoid getting IC. Although there is nothing we can do now other than to manage it the best we can, perhaps by understanding the urinary disorder, we can help others keep their bladders healthy.

Potential causes of interstitial cystitis

Although no exact cause has yet been pinpointed, I have come up with a few potential causes of interstitial cystitis based on personal experience and research. 

• It could be genetic. Studies show that there seems to be a genetic link to IC, but further research is needed.
• It could be an autoimmune reaction or allergy.
• There could be a defect in the protective bladder lining. A leak in the epithelium may allow toxic substances in urine to irritate your bladder wall.
• The bladder lining could be damaged from infection. Although it could have a genetic component, I believe my bladder wall started to become damaged the first time I got a urinary tract infection. After my third infection, the pain never went away.

Ways to avoid getting interstitial cystitis

Unfortunately, there may be nothing you can do to prevent the onset of IC. However, if you suffer from frequent bladder infections, you should know a few things that you can do to - hopefully - avoid getting this painful bladder disorder. 

• Take your bladder health seriously. Do what you can to avoid getting infections: Urinate before and after intercourse, drink plenty of water, and relieve your bladder when you feel the need. Never hold it in if you can help it.
• If you do get a bladder infection, take steps to allow quick and complete healing. First, see your doctor for treatment and take your full prescribed course of antibiotics. Stay hydrated, but avoid acidic food and beverages, which can be more irritating (yes, even cranberry juice). Stick with water. Consider taking probiotics to replenish the healthy bacteria in your body. Avoid intercourse until you have completed your treatment, and wear breathable cotton undergarments.

**Disclaimer: The author is not a medical professional, and this article is not meant to replace professional medical advice. If you are suffering from urinary symptoms, please visit with your doctor immediately. 

References:

Interstitial Cystitis, University of Rochester Medical Center 

Photo courtesy of Flickr / Britt-knee

Avoid These Artificially-Fragranced Products to Prevent UTIs

Sufferers of urinary tract infections (UTIs), like myself, understand how they can negatively impact your life. The symptoms can be unbearable at times. If you routinely suffer from UTIs or bladder infections, you might have noticed that certain things can trigger an infection. For example, I have found that products with artificial fragrances can be very irritating, and can sometimes even cause these infections. 

1. Commercial laundry detergents

Scented laundry detergent is one of the first things I stopped using when I realized it might be causing the irritation. I switched to a brand that carries scent-free laundry soap. Unfortunately, I have a large amount of fragranced detergent left so I sometimes use it for washing loads that don't include undergarments or towels, just to use it up. Definitely avoid scented fabric softeners, as well. 

Dryer balls work as well as fabric softener, but don't contain irritating chemicals

2. Artificially-fragranced body washes

Most soaps and shower gels are made with artificial fragrances, which can be irritating to someone who suffers from UTIs. Anything you use in the shower could potentially irritate the urinary tract. I have slowly been switching over to natural or fragrance-free body products in the shower, starting with unscented soap. I am currently looking for a good shampoo that will help avoid future problems. 

3. Perfumed toilet tissue

You may not realize it, but certain toilet paper brands contain perfumes, which should not come into contact with the urinary tract area. I am just one of the people who can always tell when I am using one of these brands, and always avoid buying them. If you get frequent bladder infections, you should try switching to another brand and see if it helps. Also, women should avoid scented tampons, which can have the same effect. 

4. Feminine freshening sprays

Avoid spraying anything onto underwear in an effort to freshen them. Even freshening sprays that were made for undergarments can be a bad idea for someone who is sensitive to artificial fragrances. If a clean pair (or a washing machine) is ever unavailable to you for a while, simply turn an old pair inside out. Really. 

*Note: This article was written several years ago, and previously published to Yahoo! Voices. I have since gone completely fragrance-free with my laundry detergent and personal products.

**Disclaimer: This article is meant for informational purposes only, and is not meant to replace professional medical advice. If you have symptoms that may indicate an infection, please see your doctor immediately.